Scleroderma

Story Published:
Jul 3, 2008 at 9:49 AM PDT

Scleroderma is a disorder that is not infectious or contagious, but can affect people of all ages. It is a debilitating disorder that affects the body's connective tissues and affects an estimated 300,000 Americans. However, very little is known about the disease.

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Liz Orem-Bedel and Richard Bates are both living with Scleroderma and they stopped by to tell us about the disease and let us know what everyone can do to help. Also, we spoke with Rheumatology Specialist Dr. Lauren Kim about some of the potential causes of the disease and although there is no known cure, how best to treat it.

Even if you do not have Scleroderma, there are still ways you can help. On Saturday, July 12th the Scleroderma Foundation will be sponsoring a 2.8-mile walk-a-thon in Gabrial Park to benefit the foundation's Oregon Chapter. The 3rd annual "Stepping out to Cure Scleroderma" is part of a national push to raise awareness, support victims and fund research. It will be a day of live entertainment, food and family fun with prizes and t-shirts for every registered walker.

For more information, contact Liz Orem-Bedel at 503-245-4588, e-mail at sdforegon@comcast.net, or visit the website.